I am considering changing careers and becoming an interpreter [Spanish/English/French].

However, given the significant investment in both time and money which an MA implies, I would like to take an introductory course first, in order to find out whether 1) I like it enough to make a serious commitment and 2) I am good enough to succeed at it.

Is there ANY introductory course for Conference Intepreting? Ideally in Paris, where I'm currently living, but it could be anywhere in a Spanish/English/French speaking country.

Hello! There is a cheaper version, taking place in England. The Cambridge Conference Interpretation Course (www.cciconline.net) has organized an "open day" for beginners or for people who wish to find out about interpreting. There is a limited number of places, and it would take place only if at least three people register.

The open day program (fee: 50 pounds, to cover costs) consists of one half-day, where beginners would attend a specific afternoon during the Course and observe a UN-style meeting in all Course working languages, interpreted by the students on the Course. After observing the meeting, and hearing the general feedback from the teaching faculty, beginners would then have a private session with the Course director, who would present interpreting as a profession and answer questions.

If you are interested, please see the website to contact the organizers directly.